Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has drawn attention to new rights and forms of recognition for people affected by pregnancy loss as Baby Loss Awareness Week comes to a close.

The Minister attended a remembrance event hosted by the Little Forget Me Nots Trust, joining bereaved families, friends and the wider community.

The gathering featured a Wave of Light, where personalised candles bearing the names of babies and children were lit, accompanied by live music.

Two notable measures introduced in 2026 aim to enhance recognition and practical help for those experiencing pregnancy loss.

From April, employees who experience a loss before 24 weeks have a day-one entitlement to up to two weeks' leave, with statutory pay available subject to eligibility, giving parents time to grieve, recover and support each other.

In June, the voluntary Baby Loss Certificate Scheme was launched to offer families a formal way to acknowledge a baby lost before 24 weeks of pregnancy.

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: "Pregnancy and baby loss can have a profound and lasting impact. While no legislation or certificate can take away that grief, we can ensure that people are met with compassion, recognition and practical support when they need it most. "That is why I was determined to introduce a day-one right to paid miscarriage leave. It means eligible working parents can take up to two weeks' leave, giving them important time to grieve, recover and support one another without the added pressure of having to immediately return to work.

"The Baby Loss Certificate Scheme provides another important form of recognition, giving families who choose to apply a formal acknowledgement of a loss which is deeply personal and significant."

The Minister concluded: "I want to thank the families, charities and campaigners who have helped bring about these changes, and organisations such as the Little Forget Me Nots Trust for the invaluable support they provide to families experiencing loss."

Founder of the Little Forget Me Nots Trust, Louise Taylor, said: "I think it is important that we acknowledge the dedicated work taking place across the Northern Ireland Executive to bring greater recognition and support to families affected by pregnancy and baby loss.

"For too long, this has been a type of grief that, as a society, we have almost swept under the rug. Not because people don't care, but often because we simply don't know what to say or how to help.

"What has meant so much to us at Little Forget Me Nots Trust is the genuine compassion shown by each Minister who has taken the time to listen, understand and turn those conversations into meaningful action.

"These changes won't take away anyone's grief, but they do tell families that their loss matters and their baby matters.

"Our Wave of Light reminds us why this work is so important. Behind every candle is a baby or child who is deeply loved and remembered. There is still more to do, but it's equally important that we recognise the progress being made and thank those helping to make it happen."